Power Wheels is a brand of ride-on cars that is very popular and now has become the way people refer to ride-on cars. Most people use the term Power Wheels interchangeably with a toy car, truck, or tractor that kids can drive and is battery-operated. Some of these will also have remote controls, although the Power Wheels brand rarely does.
If you are a parent looking to get your kid Power Wheels (or already have one), this post will go over various Power Wheels topics to help guide you through the buying and using process. Let’s get started.
Are Power Wheels Worth the Money?
Power Wheels are definitely worth the money because they are an investment in your child’s childhood. They will have a ton of fun with them, and you can rest assured that they are safe because the best Power Wheels on the market conform to all standard safety regulations.
There is also just something about having one that makes kids feel like big boys or girls, which in turn helps boost their confidence in themselves.
Power Wheels encourage kids to go out and play, helping with their psychomotor skills. They also get them outside (which is good for their health) and exercise.
All in all, these things are priceless. Having Power Wheels will provide your child with years of enjoyment that you can both cherish together.
You should definitely invest in one today!
How Much Do Power Wheels Cost?
So how much do Power Wheels cost? Anywhere between $200-$1000 depending on the features, brand, quality, among other factors.
It is important to note that it does not necessarily equate with the best Power Wheels on the market, as some low-cost models are better than their more expensive counterparts.
Smaller Power Wheels will cost between $200- $300, while bigger, more powerful ones cost $350-$500 and even up to $1,000. Expect to pay about $500 dollars for Power Wheels with more power and features such as lights, sound effects, and remote controls.
It is important to note that while these are the average price ranges for Power Wheels in general, there are other factors that should be considered when looking at specific brands.
How do Power Wheels Work?
Power Wheels are often battery-powered. They have a motor, a DC-DC converter, a gear and brake system, a speed controller, and a steering wheel.
Power Wheels work with the start button or key for starting the car. Once switched on, the battery supplies power to the motor.
There may be a DC-DC converter that controls how much power reaches the motor. The motor then makes the car run.
The gear and brake system control how fast or slow they go. This is usually achieved with gears on each wheel which result in different speeds depending on where you are driving (i.e., forward versus reverse).
The speed controller regulates the amount of voltage sent to the motor through pulse-width modulation. As you turn the steering wheel, it is transmitted to a servo motor which turns the front wheels accordingly.
All about Power Wheels Batteries
Power Wheels batteries come in different voltage ratings. The most common Power Wheels batteries are the 6-volt, 12-volt, and 24-volt batteries.
Click here to see popular 12V Cars
Click here to see popular 24V Cars
However, there are also 36-volt and 48-volt batteries. Often, the higher the battery voltage, the more powerful the ride-on car will be.
Click here to see really fast 36V / 48V Cars
Most Power Wheels batteries are rechargeable and come with a charger. Charging the batteries is easy and takes anywhere from eight to fourteen hours for a full charge.
There is always a charging jack on the battery to which you connect the charger. The charger is then plugged into a 120-volt wall socket, and the battery starts charging.
A common problem many parents face is that over time, their child’s Power Wheels battery will stop working, and they need to replace the battery with a new one. This happens as a result of a raft of issues, including improper battery maintenance, leaving the Power Wheels on for too long, and overcharging them.
Are Power Wheels Safe?
Yes, when properly maintained and used the right way, there shouldn’t be any safety concerns with these toys.
On the other hand, if you have a toddler or smaller child who is not that easy to control when driving Power Wheels, then it may be better for them to use one of the lower voltage models because they are much easier for kids to handle.
Caution should always be taken, especially when you have smaller kids using Power Wheels. Even the safest kid-friendly Power Wheels are not meant for kids who are under three years of age.
Kids this young should be supervised by an adult to make sure they don’t get injured while riding them.
It is important that you always read and understand all instructions before using your Power Wheels. This will help you to ensure that you are using them safely and correctly.
Are Power Wheels Hard to Assemble?
Smaller Power Wheels are not hard to assemble, and it should take about an hour. Larger Power Wheels can be a bit tricky, and you will need some tools like screwdrivers, wrenches, and pliers for the assembly.
The good news is that all Power Wheels always come with user manuals that have assembly instructions. If you are not very confident about assembling it yourself, you can always ask an expert to do it for you so that they are assembled properly and will work perfectly well once your child gets on them.
Before assembly, check to make sure you have all the pieces required for the assembly. This includes nuts, bolts, washers, screws, motors, along with other fasteners that are needed to build up your Power Wheels.
Some Power Wheels come pre-assembled. In this case, you only need to remove them from the box and let your child start playing with them.
How Long Do Power Wheels Battery Run per Charge?
How long Power Wheels run per charge depends on factors such as:
Battery: The quality and age of the battery. New Power Wheels will run longer than an older one that has been used for a while.
Speed: The faster you go, the shorter they will run per charge. A child might not be able to push their Power Wheel’s speed that much so it may last longer than what is stated on average for this age group of kids.
Terrain: Power Wheels run times are usually shorter on rough or bumpy terrain than they are on a smooth, flat surface.
Battery voltage: The higher the voltage and amps, the longer the vehicle will run before requiring a recharge.
Weight: Heavier kids may need a bigger rechargeable Power Wheels battery or have to charge their batteries more frequently than lighter-weight kids do.
All of these factors should be considered before purchasing one for your child so that you can choose a model that runs long enough to be used for your child.
On average, a Power Wheels battery will run for 40-60 minutes on a single charge.
We have a complete Power Wheels Battery Guide here!
Can Power Wheels Go on Grass?
Yes, most Power Wheels can handle grassy surfaces just fine. However, smaller ones may lack enough traction to handle this type of terrain.
Both in and outdoor Power Wheels should be able to go on grass if it is not too bumpy or uneven. It may take a little bit more time for the bigger, heavier ones, but they will still get across your lawn just fine.
Can Power Wheels get Wet?
Power Wheels are often made of quality plastic materials that are water-resistant. They should be able to handle slight exposure to water without any problems.
However, if the inside wiring is exposed to water, then it can cause damage to the Power Wheels electrical system and battery. It is recommended to not get Power Wheels wet.
Can you Drive Power Wheels in Snow?
It is not advisable to drive Power Wheels in snow. There won’t be enough traction, and your child may get stuck.
Snow can also cover the Power Wheels, causing them to stop working and even damage their internal wiring, batteries, and motors.
How to Store Power Wheels
When storing Power Wheels, be sure to remove the battery, charge it and store it separately. Clean the toy with a dry cloth to remove any dirt or grime that may damage the exterior.
Store Power Wheels in an area where it is not exposed to extreme temperatures like heat and cold, as well as direct sunlight. You may want to buy an outdoor resistant cover to protect your Power Wheels from exposure to the elements.
Make sure there are no critters around that can chew or tear up part of your Power Wheels.
How to Modify Power Wheels
Modifying Power Wheels can increase their power, speed and even completely change their appearance. To modify the toy, you may want to upgrade its battery, motor, converter, and any other parts that will improve its performance.
You can do a lot of the modification yourself, but you may need help from an expert to do some of the more complicated tasks.
How to Fix Power Wheels
Most of the Power Wheels problems arise from the electrical system, which includes the battery, the converter, the motor, and the wires. It is easy to troubleshoot these Power Wheels issues because they are all related to the electrical system.
If you have a new toy and your child can’t control it or make it move, then this problem is most likely with the battery not being charged enough or with the speed controller that sends signals from a hand-held device to adjust how fast and far an electric motor will go.
If your Power Wheels are not moving at all, then there may be a problem with the motor or its gears, and it needs to be disassembled and cleaned first before trying anything else.
Power Wheels Replacement Parts
Power Wheels replacement parts include the battery, fuses, motors, and gearboxes. These items can be found online after you have identified the voltage of the Power Wheels.
Replacement parts vary depending on their age and manufacturer, but all Power Wheel models should come with a user manual that includes an itemized list of replacement parts needed to repair it if damaged while in use.
How far will a Power Wheels Remote Transmit?
Some ride-on cars come with remote controls. Depending on the brand, model, power, and age, remote controls can transmit up to 1000 feet. Smaller models may transmit up to 500 feet.
You may want to choose a wider transmission range because it is easier to control your kid’s ride if the remote control can transmit further.
Where to Buy Power Wheels
The best place to buy Power Wheels is Amazon. They have the widest range of Power Wheels and replacement parts which you can find under each product description.
With Amazon, there is no need to go out and scout for the stores that sell them because they will deliver it right at your doorstep with free shipping on some items.
Also, on Amazon, you get to read reviews from real users, so you can get an idea of what you are buying before making the purchase.
Power Wheels Alternative – Peg Perego
Peg Perego produces a wide range of up-to-date kid’s ride-on vehicles that come with parental remote controls. Most of their models also have a reverse function and can go forward and backward.
Peg Perego has Tractor Power Wheels that are stylish and impressive looking. You may want to check some of their products to decide whether or not they would be a better fit for your child.
Cost to Ship Power Wheels
How much it will cost to ship Power Wheels depends on the weight and size of the vehicle, the carrier service you are using, where you are shipping from, and how fast you want it delivered, among other factors.
On average, it will cost between $100-$300 to ship ride-on cars within the US and up to $900 if you are shipping from outside the US. However; places like Amazon and Tobbi Kids Cars usually offer free shipping in the US.
Should I buy a warranty for Power Wheels?
Yes, it is always advisable to buy an extended Amazon warranty for Power Wheels because of the unpredictability of children’s behavior. You never know when a child might get carried away and do something that can damage their toy, so having a warranty is protection against unforeseen accidents.
Most warranties have coverage from 90 days to one year, but you should note down all limitations in terms before committing to a specific warranty. Also, check whether the warranty is transferable if your child outgrows their current ride-on car.
How to choose the right Power Wheels by Age
Choosing the right Power Wheels for your kid’s age is an important factor because the size and power of the motor depend on it.
Kids aged three to five years old can use ride-on cars with a maximum speed of two miles per hour, so you don’t have to worry about their safety as long as they stay within your property.
You don’t want to buy a very powerful ride-on car, say a 48-volt one, for a four-year-old as this may be dangerous because they are bound to lose control. Also, you wouldn’t buy a 6-volt Power Wheels toy for older kids because this will not give them the thrill they are looking for.
It is best to choose a ride-on car that matches your kid’s age and size so you can avoid injuries while playing with it. Ask around, read reviews, product specifications, and consider your child’s preferences before making a purchase.
What is the Weight Limit for Power Wheels?
Smaller Power Wheels often have a maximum weight limit of 66 pounds. Bigger ones can carry up to 130 pounds. Some super big toys, however, can carry up to 220 pounds.
You should ensure that your child’s weight is within the maximum limit of each Power Wheels toy before making a purchase because kids will only get one chance to enjoy their ride-on cars, and they must be safe while riding them.
Power Wheels Safety Equipment
Kids need Power Wheels safety equipment which includes helmets and knee and elbow pads. These two items can help prevent injuries while playing with toy cars.
The helmets should be designed for kids after making sure they will give maximum protection against blows to the head, collisions, and other accidents that may cause injury while using Power Wheel toys. They should also be made of materials that are non-toxic and cause no skin irritation.
Knee and elbow pads, on the other hand, should provide a comfortable fit so that your child will not have trouble playing while wearing them. Make sure they are removable, too, because some kids don’t like anything constricting their movements when having fun.
Do Power Wheels have Seat Belts?
Some Power Wheels brands have seat belts to protect kids against injuries while playing with their toys. The seat belt should be adjustable so it can fit your child comfortably and have a buckle that is easy for them to fasten themselves without any help from adults.
Ensure the padding of the seat belt will not cause skin irritation or rashes when they are wearing them because these items will be in tight contact with their skin for a long time.
Can Adults ride Power Wheels?
While Power Wheels are not meant for adults, you make some modifications so you can ride the toy car. But before doing anything, consider your weight and ensure it is within the maximum limit of each Power Wheels product, so you don’t risk damaging it while riding.
You may need to swap out some parts or add extra cushioning to make sure adults will be safe when using these toys for kids. Be careful in modifying a Power Wheels toy for adults because some parts may not be designed for adults, and putting too much strain on them can cause the product to break.
Things I wish I knew Before Buying a Power Wheels Toy
Safety features are important
This is the most important thing to consider when buying a Power Wheels toy because you don’t want your kid getting injured while playing with the product. Safety equipment such as helmets and knee pads should be able to absorb shock from accidents so your child will not get hurt after losing control of their ride-on car or bumping into something hard accidentally.
Power Wheels toys must have a maximum weight limit
It is important to choose a toy that matches your child’s age and size so you can avoid injuries when they are playing with the product. If it is too small, your child might get hurt if they fall off or lose control of their toy car while playing with it. The car may also just not move.
If you are not sure about which Power Wheels to buy for your kid, consider checking our buyers guide section because this will help you make an informed decision.
The battery must be properly maintained
You don’t want to buy a Power Wheels toy that will not last long because it could drain the battery quickly. The batteries should be securely attached to their toys so they don’t come loose during high-speed rides or bumpy roads, which can cause them to fall off and damage other parts in the process.
You must also check if your child’s ride-on car remote control needs batteries as these are usually not included. Click here to see what Power Wheels come with.
How you store Power Wheels matters
Power Wheels Storage, especially long term, can affect the batteries of Power Wheels toys. After using it for a long time, you should store your toy car in a cool and dry place so there is no risk of humidity or moisture building up inside its parts which can cause corrosion.
Buy an outdoor resistant cover and make sure your child does not play with their toy car when it is wet because this can cause corrosion which will affect the performance of Power Wheels toys.
Final Thoughts
This guide should help you get more out of Power Wheels toys for your children. Make sure you choose the best ones according to their age and size so they can use them safely without causing damage to themselves or other people around them when playing with these items.
Hopefully, the information we have provided here will help you pick the right Power Wheels toy for your child, also known as ride-on cars which you now know.
Here are 10 things you should know before buying a Power Wheels.
Please be careful and use at your own risk
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